Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WILL THERE BE AN OFFICIAL LATIN SONG FOR THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
From Ricky Martin to Shakira and Bad Bunny, Latin music has left its mark on the World Cup. And with the 2026 World Cup being held in the US, Mexico, and Canada, the question is inevitable: will there be an official song with a Latin flavor? In this article, we explore the rumors, analyze popularity statistics, and revisit past hits that had us singing and jumping like we were on the pitch. Get comfortable, because this is going to be a party!
Latin American History at the World Cup
Latinos not only bring passion to the stands and magic to the pitch, they have also made the world vibrate with their songs. Since the 90s, Latin artists have become protagonists of World Cup soundtracks. And it's no coincidence: they represent joy, celebration, and global connection.
Ricky, Shakira, and the Latin Legacy
It all started strong in France 1998, when Ricky Martin shook the football world with "La Copa de la Vida" (The Cup of Life). That song broke down borders and became an icon. Then came Shakira, who in 2010 made history with “Waka Waka”: over 3 billion views on YouTube and a perfect fusion of culture, rhythm, and message. Since then, FIFA has increasingly focused on including Latin voices in its repertoire. In Russia 2018, Maluma made it onto the soundtrack. And at Qatar 2022, Ozuna and Gims presented “Arhbo,” while Nicki Nicole and Myriam Fares also added their flavor. “The Cup of Life” sold over 8 million copies worldwide. “Waka Waka” was the most streamed World Cup song to date, surpassing 3.5 billion streams. Shakira is the only artist to have participated in three consecutive World Cups (2006, 2010, and 2014). More than 60% of official FIFA songs have included Latin elements or Spanish-speaking artists since 2002. The story is clear: if there's a World Cup, there's Latin rhythm. And with 2026 just around the corner, the bets are on.
Which Latin artists are rumored for 2026?
Although FIFA hasn't yet confirmed the official artists, many names are already being discussed on social media, forums, and in specialized media. And of course, the Latin market carries weight: the United States and Mexico are musical powerhouses with millions of fans across the continent. So it's not unreasonable to think about an official Latin song, or at least one of the main songs.
Bad Bunny on the attack?
One of the names that's being mentioned most is Bad Bunny. The Puerto Rican has dominated the global charts for the last five years and has already collaborated with sports brands like Adidas and WWE. His urban style, mixed with reggaeton, trap, and even merengue, would be a World Cup smash hit. Furthermore, his engagement with young audiences is unbeatable. Karol G, Peso Pluma, and Bizarrap in the conversation. Karol G is another fan favorite and hasn't hidden her love for soccer. Peso Pluma, with his blend of corridos tumbados and explosive presence in the US and Mexico, is also on everyone's radar. And Bizarrap, with his viral sessions, could bring something fresh and unexpected if he teams up with an iconic voice. Bad Bunny was the most streamed artist globally on Spotify from 2020 to 2022. Karol G has over 45 million monthly listeners on digital platforms. Peso Pluma was the most streamed Mexican artist in the US in 2023. Bizarrap has surpassed 12 billion combined streams on his sessions. If a Karol G x Bizarrap x Bad Bunny combo is put together, the 2026 World Cup could Have a song with 100% Latin DNA. And the party is guaranteed.
Cultural Impact and Public Expectation
World Cup songs don't just play: they become part of the collective memory. They are the soundtrack to memories, goals, tears, and celebrations. And in that sense, Latin music has a unique power: it connects with deep emotions and gets even the toughest people dancing.
What People Are Saying
According to a survey conducted by FIFA Sound, 68% of fans surveyed in Latin America and the US expect an official song with Latin participation. Many even suggest collaborations: “Bad Bunny with Rosalía,” “Maluma with J Balvin,” “Shakira with Rauw Alejandro.” What's important isn't just the rhythm, but the cultural representation. In a World Cup divided between Mexico, the United States, and Canada, the Latin element will be unavoidable. Millions of Spanish-speaking fans will travel, watch matches, or experience it from home. A song with Spanish lyrics (or at least a catchy chorus in Spanglish) would be a cultural coup. It's no longer just about rhythm, but about identity, pride, and belonging. 73% of the 2022 World Cup viewers in the US were of Hispanic origin. Latin music is the second most streamed genre on TikTok globally. Official songs see an average increase of 300% in sales and streams during the tournament. The last song with a Spanish lyric was “Live It Up” (2018) with Nicky Jam. In short: the people want it, the numbers back it up, and the artists are ready. The question? It's not whether there will be an official Latin song... it's who dares to break it in 2026.
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